Metrical Index

3 through 5

What are meters?

Groups of numbers, known as meters, indicate the number of syllables in each phrase of text. This index lists each hymn under its metrical heading so that hymn texts of like meter can be matched with a variety of hymn tunes. When matching texts and tunes, be sure to consider mood and word accents, as well as meter.

Common Meter Names

Some frequently used hymn meters have traditional names: Short Meter (SM) is 6.6.8.6.; Common Meter (CM) is 8.6.8.6.; and Long Meter (LM) is 8.8.8.8. The letter D after the meter indicates that the meter is doubled—used twice in each verse.